San Diego FC continued its strong start to the 2026 Major League Soccer season with a 2-0 victory over St. Louis City SC at Snapdragon Stadium, thanks to an early goal from Anders Dreyer. The match, played exactly one year after these clubs first met in a scoreless draw, saw Dreyer score in the third minute following a precise pass from Marcus Ingvartsen with Onni Valakari also assisting on the breakthrough.
Dreyer’s Milestone Places Him Among MLS Elite
This goal elevated Anders Dreyer to become the second fastest player in MLS history to reach 20 goals and 20 assists, trailing only Lionel Messi, who achieved the feat in fewer games. Dreyer, who was last season’s MVP runner-up behind Messi, has shown determination and skill throughout the campaign.
San Diego’s head coach Mikey Varas praised Dreyer’s preparation, highlighting the player’s intense approach during training sessions.
His training in these recent weeks have been absolutely phenomenal,
Varas said.
Like a guy who is playing a final during the training sessions. He’s just an incredibly talented player who gives everything for his teammates.
Building Momentum With Team Effort and Key Assists
Dreyer had already contributed three assists this season before scoring, including two against CF Montréal in SDFC’s MLS opener and one more against Pumas UNAM in the Concacaf Champions Cup. After setting up Ingvartsen’s second goal in the 54th minute, Dreyer reflected on his role in the assist.
I heard Marcus saying ‘play it,’ and I played it. He was free. It was a good finish from him.
Ingvartsen capitalized on the chance, sending the ball past St. Louis goalkeeper Roman Burki to seal the win. Ingvartsen commented on the goal connection, stating,
It was great connection on the second goal,
and added,
He managed to work his way through the side, and I’m turning around on his right side. I get this really great pass that kills the defensive line.
Match Control and Tactical Advantages
San Diego FC dominated possession and shot opportunities throughout the match, leading at halftime 1-0 with 55.4% possession and outshooting St. Louis 5-2. By the final whistle, SDFC held 61.1% possession and a 10-4 shot advantage. Goalkeeper Duran Ferree secured his second career start with another clean sheet, while Roman Burki recorded four saves for St. Louis City SC.
Impact of Player Absences and Team Outlook
St. Louis City SC played without key midfielder Marcel Hartel, who missed the game due to his partner’s childbirth. Hartel had scored five goals in his last six MLS appearances before his absence, which likely affected St. Louis’s offensive threats under new head coach Yoann Damet. This defeat left St. Louis with a 0-1-1 record against SDFC holding a 2-0-1 edge in their head-to-head meetings.
Upcoming Fixtures and Competitive Challenges Ahead
San Diego FC aims to maintain its undefeated streak as it prepares to face Sporting Kansas City at Sporting Park on Saturday, with kickoff scheduled for 5:30 p.m. Additionally, the team will continue its Concacaf Champions Cup journey, beginning with a Round of 16 home leg against Toluca FC on March 11, seeking to build on its early domestic and international successes this season.
